TOP TIPS: For Obtaining Outdoor Permits

Posted February 1, 2024 in 3D Design, Blog, Design/Build, General, outdoor design, Outdoor Living Room, Videos

In order to submit a complete building permit application in municipalities like Upper Saucon Township, it is crucial to include specific information and follow important steps. Failing to do so can result in project delays, expensive fines, or even more severe consequences. The problem is that additional permits or approvals may be required before or in conjunction with obtaining your official Building Permit from Upper Saucon Township. That is why it is vital to collaborate with a knowledgeable partner who can assist you throughout the entire process, especially when it comes to planning your custom outdoor living space.

The right partner can help you effectively communicate with your township or municipality, develop your plans, acquire the necessary building permits, handle any engineering requirements, schedule inspections promptly, and alleviate all the stress associated with your project.

To simplify the process of applying for building permits in Upper Saucon Township, here are some helpful tips you should consider following:

  • Determine what permits you will need 

Not all construction or home-improvement projects require a permit, but many do, and if you fail to secure the right permits you could experience major hurdles. In most cases, your contractor can help you with the permitting process, answer questions about the building codes, and help you determine when a building permit is needed. However, navigating the permit process can be challenging, even for experienced individuals, and depending on your scope of work, your project could require separate permits, such as grading, plumbing, electrical, and heating/cooling. Failure to obtain the correct permits could result in fines and other expensive hassles.

So, instead of burdening you with these confusing yet essential tasks, our experienced team takes care of all aspects of your design, build, and everything in between! From creating plans to securing your building permits, coordinating engineering inspections, and tackling the build itself, we are with you every step of the way and handle all the heavy lifting to get your project designed, approved, and built so you can focus on the things that matter.

How to Design the Perfect Backyard →

  • Prepare your plans

Be mindful that State law might mandate a licensed engineer for your project, depending on its size and type. And if you’re in a homeowner association, expect to present detailed plans, material samples, and renderings to assess your project’s impact to the surrounding area. Oftentimes your HOA will vote on the specifics of your project and typically recommend design revisions to ensure your project aligns with the surrounding area. So, without skilled designers and builders, you could risk construction delays and expensive change orders.

At MasterPLAN, we recognize the importance of visualization in the permitting and approval process. So, utilizing our award-winning tools and design/build expertise, we help you create a custom 3D design video featuring vivid colors that offer a true-to-life preview of your new custom outdoor living space and its connection to your home and surrounding area. This personalized video will display your project in both day and night settings, delivering an engaging experience with lifelike images and detailed perspectives. This proven process simplifies approvals, eliminates errors, enhances communication, and expedites construction.

3 ways to save money when transforming your backyard into an outdoor living space →

  • Enjoy watching your build come to life 

Nothing is worse than worrying about your home being in the wrong hands when it comes to construction. This is why we aim to simplify your outdoor living space project, alleviating the stress and complexity of obtaining permits, developing plans, and supervising crews. Our dedicated team manages logistics, including timely crew arrivals, background and qualification checks, material quality assurance &  deliveries, permits, inspections, and all communication necessary to get your build complete.

Your personal Project Concierge will oversee everything from liaising with local authorities, planning and securing your permits, to engineering and scheduling inspections. Our mission is to professionally and efficiently coordinate every detail, allowing you to look forward to planning how you will enjoy your new custom outdoor living space.

How to design the perfect backyard in Saucon Valley, Pennsylvania →


If you’re interested in creating a new outdoor kitchen in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to enjoy meals outdoors this summer, renovating your existing inground swimming pool in Allentown, Pennsylvania for your grandkids’ enjoyment, or building a custom outdoor living space in Easton, Pennsylvania that will make lasting memories, then you’ve come to the right place. That’s because we understand the value of your investment and want to make the entire process as hassle-free as possible. That’s why we’re proud to partner with homeowners in the Lehigh Valley area to simplify the transformation of their backyard into a personalized outdoor living space that adds value to their home.

With our award-winning design/build process, our team of experienced professionals takes care of everything from engineering and project management to contractor scheduling, permit applications, and inspections for your custom outdoor living space so you won’t ever need to worry about communicating with your HOA or township either.

Getting started is easy. Click here to schedule your discovery call with your own Project Concierge!

For a limited time, download your very own copy of “2024 Design Secrets“. This valuable resource will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure that your investment is well-placed. So why wait? Begin turning your dream into a reality today with this helpful guide!

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